Maternity Leave in the UK: What Every Expectant Mother Should Know in 2025

Pregnancy is an exciting yet overwhelming journey, and one of the most common concerns for working mothers is understanding their maternity leave rights. Knowing what you’re entitled to in terms of leave, pay, and flexible working options helps you plan your pregnancy journey with confidence.

At Window to the Womb, we support expectant mothers by offering advanced pregnancy services such as Private Ultrasound Scan Hitchin, Private Baby Scan Clinic Hitchin, and Private 4D Ultrasound Scan Hitchin. Alongside medical reassurance, we also want to help you understand your workplace rights in 2025.

Understanding Maternity Leave Rights in 2025

In the UK, statutory maternity leave remains up to 52 weeks. This is split into:

• Ordinary Maternity Leave – the first 26 weeks.

• Additional Maternity Leave – the following 26 weeks.

You don’t have to take the full 52 weeks, but you must take at least two weeks (or four if you work in a factory) after giving birth.

Key update for 2025: More employers are now adopting family-friendly policies, meaning some may offer enhanced maternity packages beyond the legal minimum. It’s worth checking your workplace contract or HR policies.

👉 Engagement Tip: Have you checked your company’s maternity policy yet? You might be surprised at the extra benefits available!

Maternity Pay Entitlements

When it comes to maternity pay, there are two main options:

1. Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP):

• Paid for up to 39 weeks.

• First 6 weeks: 90% of your average weekly earnings.

• Following 33 weeks: £184.03 per week (2025 rate) or 90% of your earnings, whichever is lower.

2. Maternity Allowance (MA):

• If you don’t qualify for SMP (for example, if you’re self-employed or haven’t worked long enough), you may get MA.

• Usually up to £184.03 per week for 39 weeks.

👉 Tip: Use the government’s maternity pay calculator to work out exactly what you’ll receive.

Flexible Working Options for Mothers

Returning to work after maternity leave can feel daunting, but UK law gives you the right to request flexible working. This can include:

• Part-time hours

• Compressed workweeks

• Remote or hybrid working

• Flexible start and finish times

Since April 2024, employees no longer need to wait 26 weeks before applying for flexible working—you can now request it from day one of employment. This gives expectant mothers greater confidence when planning a return to work.

👉 Question for Readers: Would flexible working make your return to work smoother? Many mums find this helps with childcare and personal balance.

Planning Ahead for a Stress-Free Pregnancy

Knowing your maternity rights allows you to plan ahead with peace of mind. Alongside workplace preparations, ensuring the health and well-being of your baby is equally important.

At Window to the Womb Hitchin, we’re here to support your journey with:

• Private Ultrasound Scan Hitchin for reassurance throughout pregnancy.

• Private Baby Scan Clinic Hitchin offering a welcoming environment for families.

• Private 4D Ultrasound Scan Hitchin for unforgettable bonding moments.

Our experienced team also provides gynaecology scans and blood testing services, giving you the confidence you deserve at every stage of pregnancy.

Final Thoughts

Maternity leave is more than just time off—it’s about giving yourself and your baby the best possible start. By understanding your rights, pay entitlements, and flexible working options, you can focus on enjoying this special journey without unnecessary stress.

Location: London, UK

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